SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – She carries a legendary name and flaunts the most graceful lines seen on San Diego waters. And this Friday morning, America, the beautiful, will ease out into San Diego Bay under the brightest of bright pink mainsails to inspire and encourage those fighting breast cancer. Owned and Captained by Troy Sears, Yacht America will raise the largest pink main sail in the world – stretching more than 105 feet above the water, and she will sail with volunteers of the American Cancer Society.

Sears and his able crew will be raising money to support the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer San Diego event, slated for Sunday October 21, 2018. The massive pink mainsail was made possible by Cabrillo Credit Union, who underwrote its’ production and have joined forces with America for the month-long October sailing schedule.

“Because of the determination of community leaders such as Cabrillo Credit Union and Next Level Sailing, the American Cancer Society is there for people in every community affected by breast cancer, whether they’re currently dealing with a diagnosis, may face one in the future, or will avoid it altogether because of education and risk reduction,” said Jeff Klaas, Executive Vice-President, West Region, American Cancer Society, Inc. “Each time San Diegans see America on the bay, they will be reminded of the shared mission to defeat breast cancer. We are deeply grateful to our new community partners for their creativity and support of our mission. Dollars raised help the American Cancer Society fund innovative breast cancer research; provide education and guidance to help people reduce their risk; and offer comprehensive patient support to those who need it most.

Since 1993, more than 14 million supporters have raised more than $870 million nationwide. Last year, 25,000 walkers in San Diego helped to raise more than $850,000. In 2017, ACS staff helped guide more than 40,000 cancer patients through every step of their journey as they moved through the health care system, including helping with insurance problems, referring them to ACS and other local services, assisting caregivers and addressing obstacles to care.